If you have a soft spot for comforting, bite-sized treats, you are going to love this Banana Donut Holes Recipe. These little gems are delightfully fluffy, subtly sweet, and packed with natural banana flavor that sneaks in a good dose of fiber without any fuss. Whether you crave a quick breakfast snack, a lunchbox surprise, or a cozy dessert, these banana donut holes deliver an irresistible combination of simplicity and taste that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients just right is key to making these banana donut holes pure magic. Each item is simple yet essential, bringing flavor, texture, and that perfect golden color to life.
- Bananas (2 medium, mashed): They add natural sweetness, moisture, and a tender crumb to the donut holes.
- Flour (1½ cups): Provides structure to hold those fluffy bites together.
- Baking powder (2 tsp): The secret to light, airy donut holes that puff up beautifully.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the sweet notes and rounds out the banana flavor.
- Sugar (½ cup, for coating): Brings a sweet crunch that perfectly complements the soft interior.
- Cinnamon (2 tbsp, for coating): Gives the donut holes a warm, fragrant spice that feels like home.
How to Make Banana Donut Holes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven or air fryer to 350°F; this ensures the donut holes bake evenly and rise nicely. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas and Add Vanilla
In a mixing bowl, mash the bananas until silky smooth—no lumps here! Stir in the vanilla extract which adds depth and a subtle sweet aroma that lifts the whole recipe.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Add the flour and baking powder to your banana mixture, gently folding the ingredients together until just combined. The dough should be softly sticky, which means you’re on the right track for tender donut holes.
Step 4: Shape the Donut Holes
Lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking as you transfer the dough to a clean board. Knead it gently until it holds together in a slightly firm ball. Then break the dough into 9 to 12 golf ball-sized pieces, rolling each one until smooth and round for a perfectly uniform look.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place your shaped donut holes on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Give them a quick spray of oil so they develop a lovely golden crust. Bake for 6 to 8 minutes, until they puff up and are lightly browned on the outside, signaling they are perfectly cooked.
Step 6: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
While baking, mix the sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Once the donut holes are out of the oven and still warm, toss them gently in this fragrant mixture. The cinnamon sugar coating adds a delightful crunch and irresistible aroma, elevating the simple treats to next-level yum.
How to Serve Banana Donut Holes Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra flair, sprinkle some powdered sugar or drizzle melted vegan chocolate on top. Fresh banana slices or a dusting of crushed nuts can add texture and a fresh twist that’s both beautiful and delicious.
Side Dishes
These donut holes pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or a chilled glass of almond milk. You can also serve them alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of plant-based yogurt for a balanced snack or breakfast on the go.
Creative Ways to Present
Try threading your banana donut holes on skewers for a fun party platter or serve them in a pretty bowl with colorful napkins for a cozy afternoon treat. Adding a small dipping bowl of maple syrup or vegan caramel can turn this simple recipe into an interactive dessert experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover banana donut holes keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This makes it easy to grab a quick and wholesome snack whenever banana donut cravings hit.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the donut holes in a sealed container or freezer bag. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready, thaw them overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a couple of hours.
Reheating
Rewarm your donut holes gently in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes to refresh their soft texture and crunchy cinnamon sugar coating. Avoid microwaving as it can make them chewy.
FAQs
Can I use ripe bananas that have brown spots?
Absolutely! Bananas with brown spots are actually perfect for this recipe because they’re sweeter and softer, enhancing both the flavor and texture of your donut holes.
Is this Banana Donut Holes Recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, it is fully plant-based with no animal products involved. It’s a great option for anyone following a vegan diet or those seeking a lighter, wholesome treat.
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour?
Definitely. Using a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour works well here, though the texture might be slightly different but still delicious.
What’s the best way to make sure the donut holes don’t stick to the pan?
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray the donut holes with oil before baking. This creates a non-stick surface and helps them become gorgeously golden.
Can I bake these banana donut holes in an air fryer?
Yes! Preheat the air fryer to 350°F and bake them on a parchment-lined basket for about 6 to 8 minutes, checking for a golden-brown exterior and puffiness.
Final Thoughts
This Banana Donut Holes Recipe is truly a joy to make and share. It’s simple, wholesome, and bursting with natural banana goodness wrapped in a sweet cinnamon sugar coat that everyone will love. Whether you’re new to baking or an experienced pro, these donut holes are a delightful treat that’s perfect anytime you need a little homemade comfort. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite snack!
Print
Banana Donut Holes Recipe
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 12 donut holes
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These super-easy and minimalist vegan banana donut holes are a delightful treat featuring a hidden source of fiber. Soft, slightly sweet, and coated in a cinnamon-sugar blend, they make a perfect breakfast snack or dessert that is both simple to prepare and delicious.
Ingredients
Batter Ingredients
- 2 medium bananas, mashed
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Coating
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 tbsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven or air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mash and Mix: In a bowl, mash the bananas thoroughly until completely smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract to combine.
- Form Batter: Add the flour and baking powder to the banana mixture. Gently stir until a batter forms, avoiding overmixing to keep the dough tender.
- Knead the Dough: Lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking, transfer the dough to a cutting board, and softly knead it just enough to form a slightly firm, sticky dough ball.
- Shape Donut Holes: Divide the dough into 9 to 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into golf ball-sized, round dough balls using your hands.
- Prepare for Baking: Lightly spray the dough balls with oil to help them brown evenly, then arrange them spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 6 to 8 minutes until the donut holes are puffy and lightly browned on the outside.
- Mix Coating: While baking, combine the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl and stir until well blended.
- Coat Donut Holes: Once baked, immediately toss the donut holes in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.
- Serve and Store: Enjoy the donut holes warm for the best texture and flavor, or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Notes
- To ensure dough doesn’t stick excessively, lightly oil your hands before handling.
- Donut holes are best enjoyed fresh and warm but can be refrigerated and reheated.
- You can use gluten-free flour to make this recipe gluten-free if desired.
- For a sweeter touch, add a tablespoon of maple syrup or sugar to the batter.
- Ensure bananas are ripe for best natural sweetness and moisture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
